Federal Agents Shoot Third Minnesotan in Three Weeks

A federal officer shot and killed a Minnesotan on January 26, 2026, marking the third such incident in less than a month. This latest shooting occurred in the Whittier neighborhood of Minneapolis, leading to significant public outcry and protest. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz confirmed the incident via social media, expressing his horror at the repeated violence. “I just spoke with the White House after another horrific shooting by federal agents this morning. Minnesota has had it. This is sickening,” he stated.

Emergency responders arrived at the scene, where witnesses reported seeing the man on the ground, apparently unconscious. Initial reports from the Star Tribune indicated that the man later died, as confirmed by Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara. Police have yet to publicly identify the deceased individual.

Public Response and Law Enforcement Actions

In the aftermath of the shooting, law enforcement officials cordoned off the area around 26th Street West and Nicollet Avenue, deploying tear gas to disperse angry demonstrators. Over 100 federal agents were present, suggesting a heavy security response to the situation. Video footage circulating on social media shows five federal agents wrestling the man to the ground outside the New American Development Center. Eyewitnesses reported hearing over ten gunshots, though it is unclear how many agents discharged their weapons.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) later stated that the man was armed with a gun and two magazines. However, the department’s previous statements regarding earlier shootings have raised questions about their accuracy. Following the killing of Renee Good, DHS initially labeled her a “domestic terrorist,” a designation that has since faced scrutiny. Furthermore, a 911 call related to the second shooting suggests that the agent fired at a man who was attempting to flee into a house, contradicting DHS’s claim that the shot was fired defensively.

Context of Ongoing Tensions

This shooting follows a significant protest against the actions of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in downtown Minneapolis, where tens of thousands took to the streets just one day prior, despite subzero temperatures. The public’s frustration and anger are palpable, as these incidents raise serious concerns about federal law enforcement practices in Minnesota.

These developments highlight an escalating situation where community members feel increasingly threatened by the presence of federal agents. The ongoing violence and the government’s response continue to spark heated debate regarding immigration enforcement policies and the appropriate use of force by federal authorities.

The Minnesota Reformer, which originally reported this story, is part of the States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501(c)(3) public charity. As this situation evolves, it remains crucial for local and federal authorities to address the community’s concerns and seek solutions to prevent further tragedies.